It’s no secret that St. Louis is home to great beer. We are blessed with an outstanding number of expert local brewers who take pride in the quality of their products. As the season changes and the temperatures cool, we switch from refreshing, thirst-quenching beverages to hearty, rich selections. Here are my top five local beers for the fall.
1. Civil Life Brown Ale – Civil Life Brewery
Bursting with baked fruit and brown sugar, this flagship beer from Civil Life finishes clean and balanced. It’s the perfect beer for watching the homecoming football game.

2. O’Fallon Pumpkin Beer – O’ Fallon Brewery
Cinnamon, allspice, clove and nutmeg make this taste like pumpkin pie in a glass. I really appreciate that its flavors are balanced and convincing when other pumpkin beers can be over the top and too synthetic. One sip and you’re ready for Halloween.

3. Oachkatzlschwoaf (O-Katz) – Urban Chestnut Brewing Co.
This Octoberfest lager from the brewery that specializes in German beer presents us with a perfect blend of dried citrus and toasted dough. Light on the palette, its smooth finish makes this a gulpable companion for playoff baseball. Pair with any hot dog or sausage from the grill.

4. Art Of Neurosis – 2nd Shift Brewing
Dried citrus, starfruit and golden raisin combine with notes of fall potpourri and dried roses. This malty and high-alcohol IPA took the brewer 47 tries before he got the right formula, hence the name. This beer is perfect for sitting by a wood-burning fire after the first frost.

5. Chocolate Milk Stout – 4 Hands Brewing Co.
Delicious milk and dark chocolate notes on the nose and palette combine with a creamy, long finish. In a world of gimmicky flavors, this beer is a stand-alone. Convincing and multidimensional with notes of coffee and toffee and a hint of overripe banana, it’s great even for the non-beer drinker. For a relaxing afternoon, grab a milk stout and a warm blanket, and curl up on the couch with your favorite holiday movie!

Start your Thanksgiving Day by strapping on your running shoes and giving back. All proceeds from the family-friendly 5K benefit the Harvey Kornblum Food Pantry. Strollers and dogs on leashes are welcome, and the event also includes entertainment, refreshments and giveaways.